Necessary Lifestyle Changes

As you would know through my previous post I had myself assessed using BioSignature Modulation. Basically this involves taking Body Fat Measurements at 12 different sites of the body. Depending on the site, those with the highest readings are associated with certain Hormones.


BioSignature Modulation is a system based on scientific evidence that where people store their body fat is an indication of their hormonal profile. Basically, hormonal imbalances can cause fat to accumulate in certain areas of the body.


Therefor your body fat levels and corresponding hormonal imbalances can be effectively managed through a combination of diet, exercise, a targeted supplementation program, and lifestyle modifications .


My results showed I am carrying excessive amounts of Cortisol, Estrogen and Insulin.


Initially I took a Digestive Test to determine whether my digestion is working effectively. Basically what this means is that I could be eating all the right foods but if my digestion is not working correctly then my body is not absorbing the nutrients it requires. And guess what? My digestion sucks! I am not producing enough Hydrochloric Acid to metabolise my food.


I need to use only BPA free products (especially when storing foods in plastics) as they can leech nasty chemicals. Xenoestrogens are environmental Estrogens and they can end up entering your blood stream. Also, I MUST avoid using the microwave to reheat my food.


I am now drinking filtered water. I am also eating breakfast high in Protein eg chicken and nuts, aka The Cavewoman Diet!


Reducing Cortisol will be even harder. I need to stop stressing and get at least 7 hours uninterrupted sleep.


There will be some challenges involved in making these changes but I am determined to persevere.

BioSignature Modulation

I have recently discovered BioSignature Modulation and I have bitten the bullet (and saved up the necessary cash) and booked myself in for a consultation with Kat Eden.


BioSignature  was developed by world-renowned strength coach Charles Poliquin after noticing trends and correlations while working with athletes for nearly 30 years. BioSignature is a system based on scientific evidence that where people store their body fat is an indication of their hormonal profile.


I have been working shift work for 17 years now and even though I have kept moderately active the entire time (It has been a massive challenge working 12 hour shifts which includes night shifts). I have noticed gains in body fat in some areas and not others. Even when eating well and exercising I have a "jelly belly" that simply won't go away. According to BioSignature  this could be related to shift work, stress levels and bad sleeping habits. Sounds about right to me!


And of course those of you who REALLY know me, will know that I am the ultimate Stress Monkey! I don't sleep well, I haven't had a good nights sleep in about 20 years!


I have followed a sensible eating plan, no sugar, loads of fresh veggies, more protein etc... I've also followed intense and not so intense training regimes, I've seen personal trainers, (as I have said, I've been relatively active my entire life), I've seen dieticians, naturopaths and I've even done the 12 week Challenge. I lost about 8 kg but still had the belly fat. At the completion of the 12 Week Challenge I was physically and mentally exhausted, not to mention HUNGRY! But damn I LOOKED great! Looking into BioSignature  it says that Cortisol might be my problem.....


For example, the thickness of a person’s umbilical skin fold is a direct reflection of cortisol (the stress hormone) output. A midsection that is fat relative to the rest of the body (again, just think of those people you know with skinny arms and legs and pot bellies) is a sure fire indicator of stress. The bad news is that if stress is left unchecked your body shape will be the last thing on your mind – stress is a killer. The good news is that once a problem is identified, we can always do something about it. 


I am excited to find out my results, and a little apprehensive, what happens next? Do I give up my job? Heaven forbid! I love my job (most of the time) but I know it might probably kill me in the long run. I am all about work/life balance and I know that some changes will be necessary.


 :(

So after my first consultation, I discovered that I have elevated levels of Cortisol (surprise surprise) Estrogen and Insulin. Now that I have some results, I have a plan to improve those results. 

I will post the changes I need to make in my next Blog.

Cheers!

February - Cutting Out Sugar

My Challenge for the month of February is to reduce my Sugar intake. I know how Sugar can be bad for you health. And, it's time I took my health seriously!


Fact: Sugar tastes great and sweetened foods tend to make us overeat.


Fact: Simple Sugars can contribute to and aggravate numerous health problems; eg nervous disorders, diabetes, heart disease, gallstones, hypertension, and arthritis.


Fact: Sugar raises Insulin Levels. This inhibits the release of growth hormones, which in turn depresses the immune system. 


Fact: Sugar can contribute to weight gain and obesity. 


Fact: Sugar can contribute to hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, and the list goes on.


I have been concerned about the chance that I may end up with Type 2 Diabetes. My brother was diagnosed a few years ago. I eat well most of the time, but I find that shift work can really throw a spanner into any healthy eating plans I have. 


Thankfully I am not a massive sweets or dessert person. I do love chocolate so I will have to cut down or eliminate that :( Ignoring the sweets, lollies etc that others I work with constantly consume makes this a real challenge. I will say NO from now on!

January H2O - The Results Are In!

Well, it's finally the end of January and the end of January H2O. How did I go, you may ask?

Well, I passed with flying colours by not drinking Coffee for the entire month! As a result, I'm sleeping better and feel marginally less stressed.

I failed miserably in regards to Alcohol :( The first two weeks were good, but then the one day where we all agreed that an alcoholic drink was allowed, set me back for the rest of the month. A sneaky drink here, a sneaky drink there ........ Big Fat FAIL!

Today was my first Coffee in a month. I was SO looking forward to it this morning. That mouth watering Coffee aroma said "Good Morning" when my fella served up a wonderful cup of dark liquid to me. And you know what? I really didn't enjoy it as much as I thought! I was gob-smacked!

Don't get me wrong. I will still enjoy my Coffee but in much smaller amounts. No Coffee at work is now my rule.

Hmm, an Iced-Coffee right now would be lovely :)